Morgan Rushworth PBXT CNC Hydraulic Press Brake

Morgan Rushworth PBXT CNC Hydraulic Press Brake: O-Frame Stability for Full-Width Accuracy

The Morgan Rushworth PBXT range of CNC hydraulic press brakes is designed for manufacturers that require high bending accuracy, repeatability and long-term structural stability. Its defining feature is a fully enclosed O-frame structure, engineered to behave as a single, monolithic unit under load. This significantly reduces frame deflection and helps the machine maintain consistent bending results at high tonnages and across long working lengths.

At the centre of the PBXT design is a patented hydraulic cylinder arrangement positioned directly on the bending axis. Rather than transferring force through the side frames, the cylinders apply force vertically and evenly through the bending line. This avoids the torsional loading associated with conventional open-sided designs and keeps force transfer balanced throughout the cycle, helping to produce uniform bend angles from one end of the component to the other.

The combination of a rigid enclosed frame and directly applied bending force gives the PBXT an exceptionally stable platform for continuous, heavy-duty production. It supports consistent part quality over repeated cycles while providing the precision required for complex components, long workpieces and demanding production batches.

Fitted with the advanced ESA S875 CNC control, the PBXT also provides intuitive touchscreen programming and a strong foundation for sophisticated automation. Depending on the selected specification, the machine can support multi-axis servo backgauges, automatic crowning, adaptive bending functions and Industry 4.0 connectivity for production monitoring, maintenance planning and integration with wider smart-factory systems.

A Fully Enclosed O-Frame Structure

Conventional C-frame press brakes are open at the sides of the working area. Under high bending loads, forces can be transmitted through the side frames and create measurable deformation or twisting within the machine structure. Although this can be managed through machine design and compensation systems, it can affect the consistency of a bend, particularly across long working lengths or during demanding applications.

The PBXT uses a fully enclosed O-frame geometry to resist these forces as a unified structure. By supporting the machine around the complete frame, bending loads are distributed more effectively and structural movement is substantially reduced. The bed, beam and tooling therefore remain more consistently aligned throughout the bending cycle.

This improved rigidity is particularly valuable when bending long components, working with heavier materials or producing parts where the angle must remain consistent across the full width. It also provides a stable reference point for the machine’s CNC, backgauge and crowning systems, allowing each element to work from a predictable mechanical foundation.

Patented Cylinders Positioned on the Bending Axis

The PBXT’s patented hydraulic system is fundamental to its accuracy. The cylinders are positioned precisely on the bending axis so that force is applied directly and vertically through the working area. This differs from arrangements in which the bending force must be transferred from cylinders positioned through, or relative to, the side frames.

Applying force directly on the bending axis removes the torsional effect associated with indirect force transfer and keeps the load balanced across the machine. This helps the ram travel accurately, maintains alignment with the bed and tooling, and supports consistent pressure across the workpiece.

For the manufacturer, the practical result is greater uniformity from end to end, improved repeatability between components and more dependable first-part accuracy. These advantages become increasingly important as material thickness, component length and production volume increase.

Built for Demanding Bending Applications

The standard Morgan Rushworth PBXT range covers capacities from 110 to 320 tonnes, with bending lengths from 3100mm to 4100mm. This makes it suitable for a broad range of medium and heavy-duty applications, including the production of long folded components, structural fabrications and repeat parts in thicker materials.

Machines are supplied with Euro tooling, providing a versatile starting point for general fabrication work. Further tooling packages can be specified to suit particular materials, profiles, bend radii and finished-part requirements.

For applications beyond the standard range, special PBXT models can be manufactured with greater bending widths and higher tonnages. This allows the O-frame principle to be applied to particularly large or demanding components where a standard machine would not provide the required capacity.

The PBXT is well suited to sectors such as:

• General and subcontract fabrication
• Structural steelwork
• Shipbuilding and marine engineering
• Energy and infrastructure
• Transport and agricultural equipment
• Heavy machinery manufacture
• Industrial component production

Whether the requirement is for individual specialist components or sustained batch production, the PBXT is designed to deliver predictable bending performance under demanding conditions.

ESA S875 Advanced CNC Control

The ESA S875 CNC control gives operators a clear and accessible way to programme, visualise and manage bending work. Its large 21-inch touchscreen provides a comprehensive overview of the component, tooling, bend sequence and axis positions, helping operators prepare jobs efficiently and follow the correct production process.

Straightforward components can be programmed using numerical data, while 2D graphical programming simplifies the preparation of more complex profiles. The control can assist with bend-sequence planning, tool selection and production checks, helping to identify potential problems before the first component is formed.

Programmes can be stored and recalled for repeat production, reducing setup time and helping different operators reproduce established components consistently. Offline programming can also be used to prepare jobs on a separate PC while the press brake remains in production. This helps reduce machine idle time and allows upcoming work to be checked and organised without interrupting the current job.

Precise Axis Synchronisation and Bend Control

Accurate ram positioning is essential when a consistent angle is required along the full length of a component. The PBXT uses proportional valve technology to control and synchronise the machine axes, with positioning accuracy of up to 0.01mm. This precise control complements the stability of the O-frame and the direct application of hydraulic force on the bending axis.

Together, these systems help the machine maintain the required ram position throughout the bending cycle. This can reduce trial bends and manual corrections, improve first-off accuracy and minimise wasted material during setup.

Where required, the PBXT can be configured with automatic crowning to compensate for the remaining deflection that naturally occurs within the beam, bed, tooling and workpiece during longer bends. This helps maintain a consistent angle through the centre and towards both ends of the component.

Multi-axis servo backgauges can also be specified for more demanding work. Additional axes improve the positioning of complex or tapered components and allow multiple flange dimensions and bend positions to be programmed within a production sequence.

Greater Clearance for Deep and Complex Bends

The enclosed O-frame geometry is not restricted by leg width in the same way as a conventional open-sided frame arrangement. This provides greater usable clearance and improves access when forming deeper or more complex parts further away from the frame walls.

That additional freedom is valuable when producing large enclosures, deep channels, long structural sections and intricate components that may be difficult to accommodate on a conventional machine. It can allow manufacturers to complete more of a component on a single press brake, reducing the need for alternative forming methods, additional handling or multiple machine setups.

An optional extended frame increases the machine’s daylight opening—the available vertical space between the ram and bed. This provides additional room for deeper components, taller tooling and specialised forming arrangements. It is particularly useful where the finished geometry or required tooling would exceed the working envelope of a standard press brake.

Ready for Advanced Automation and Connected Production

The stability of the PBXT frame provides an effective foundation for advanced bending automation. Because the machine structure remains predictable under load, automated positioning, crowning and bend-correction systems can operate from a consistent mechanical reference.

Depending on the chosen configuration, the PBXT can support:

• Multi-axis servo-controlled backgauges
• Automatic crowning and bend compensation
• Adaptive bending and angle-correction functions
• Automated tool-clamping systems
• Programmable material supports
• Networked programme management
• Real-time production and machine-status monitoring
• Predictive and preventative maintenance data
• Integration with Industry 4.0 and smart-factory systems

These capabilities allow the machine to be tailored to anything from flexible, low-volume fabrication to repeat, high-output manufacturing. Connected production data can also give managers greater visibility of utilisation, machine condition and job progress, supporting more informed planning and maintenance decisions.

Configured Around Your Production Requirements

Every fabrication environment is different, so the Morgan Rushworth PBXT is available with a comprehensive selection of options. The machine can be configured around the material types, component sizes, batch volumes and level of automation required by the application.

Available configurations can include additional backgauge axes, automatic crowning, hydraulic or mechanical tool clamping, specialist tooling, front sheet supports and enhanced safety equipment. Selecting the correct tooling and support systems is essential for achieving the required bend radius, protecting the material surface, reducing manual handling and maintaining safe operation.

The optional extended frame can be selected where additional daylight is needed, while special-build machines are available for applications requiring larger working widths or tonnages above the standard range. This flexibility allows manufacturers to invest in a machine that reflects their current workload while providing scope for more advanced or demanding production in the future.

Designed for Complex and Repeat Production

The PBXT is equally capable of supporting varied subcontract work and established repeat production. Its graphical CNC interface helps operators prepare unfamiliar components, while stored programmes, tooling information and backgauge positions allow proven jobs to be recalled quickly.

For repeat batches, this reduces the need to rebuild programmes or re-establish settings from the beginning. Operators can return to validated bending data, shorten changeover times and produce components more consistently across separate production runs.

For lower-volume work, the visual programming environment and automatic axis positioning reduce the complexity of preparing new jobs. Skilled operators can use the advanced control functions to optimise challenging components, while less experienced operators benefit from clearer guidance through the programmed bending sequence.

Operator-Focused Safety and Productivity

Modern press-brake safety systems must protect the operator without creating unnecessary delays during setup and production. The PBXT can be specified with advanced guarding and monitoring systems that protect the working area while supporting efficient approach and bending speeds.

Emergency-stop controls, guarded access points, safe operating modes and controlled speed transitions contribute to a safer working environment. Depending on the machine specification, laser guarding, light guards and interlocked side or rear protection can also be incorporated.

Automatic tool clamping, programmable backgauges and material-support options can further reduce manual intervention during setup and handling. In addition to improving productivity, these systems can help reduce operator fatigue and make the processing of larger components more manageable.

Machine installation, commissioning and operator training are available to help ensure the PBXT is introduced safely and used effectively from the outset.

Engineered for Continuous, Heavy-Duty Use

The PBXT is intended for demanding industrial environments where consistent performance and machine availability are critical. Its enclosed O-frame construction offers high resistance to the cyclic loading and operational stresses generated during repeated bending.

By limiting structural movement and resisting fatigue, the frame helps preserve machine alignment and bending accuracy over its service life. The direct, balanced application of hydraulic force also reduces unnecessary stress within the structure, supporting reliable operation during sustained, high-volume production.

This robust architecture can contribute to longer machine life and lower maintenance requirements. Routine servicing, correct lubrication and regular inspection of the hydraulic, electrical and safety systems remain essential, and Selmach can provide ongoing service support and access to replacement parts throughout the life of the machine.

Why Choose the Morgan Rushworth PBXT?

The Morgan Rushworth PBXT combines the power of a CNC hydraulic press brake with the structural advantages of a fully enclosed O-frame and a patented, on-axis cylinder system. Instead of relying on the side frames to transfer the bending load, force is applied directly through the bending axis, helping the machine remain stable and produce uniform results across the component.

The PBXT is particularly well suited to manufacturers looking for:

• A rigid, fully enclosed frame with significantly reduced deflection
• Direct and balanced application of force on the bending axis
• Consistent bend angles across long working lengths
• High repeatability during continuous production
• Capacities from 110 to 320 tonnes as standard
• Standard bending lengths from 3100mm to 4100mm
• Advanced ESA S875 touchscreen CNC programming
• Flexible multi-axis backgauge and crowning options
• Greater clearance for deep and complex forming work
• Optional extended daylight for larger tooling and components
• Industry 4.0 and smart-factory integration options
• Special-build widths and tonnages for non-standard applications
• Long-term durability in demanding production environments

Conclusion

The Morgan Rushworth PBXT CNC hydraulic press brake is a highly stable and accurate bending solution for manufacturers working with long, heavy or complex components. Its fully enclosed O-frame behaves as a unified structure, substantially reducing deflection under load, while the patented hydraulic cylinders apply force directly on the bending axis to maintain balanced pressure and consistent results from end to end.

With standard models from 110 to 320 tonnes and bending lengths from 3100mm to 4100mm, the range covers a wide variety of medium and heavy-duty applications. Euro tooling, the ESA S875 CNC control and a comprehensive selection of backgauge, crowning, safety, support and connectivity options allow each machine to be configured around its intended workload.

For deeper forming work, the optional extended frame provides increased daylight, while special models can be manufactured with greater working widths and higher tonnages. This combination of structural rigidity, precise control and specification flexibility makes the PBXT a dependable platform for both varied fabrication and continuous, high-volume production.

For more information about the Morgan Rushworth PBXT O-Frame CNC hydraulic press brake, or to discuss the appropriate tonnage, bending length, tooling and automation package for your application, contact the Selmach team.